FREDERICTON (GNB) - As wildfires increase across the country, New Brunswickers are being urged to do what they can to prevent wildfires in their own province.

New Brunswick firefighting teams were mobilized 23 times last year, with 236 personnel sent to five provinces and one territory to assist.

"Wildfires are becoming more frequent and intense," said Natural Resources and Energy Development Minister Mike Holland. "Canada's 2023 wildfire season was the most destructive ever recorded. While New Brunswick was spared any major destructive events, our neighbours in Nova Scotia and Quebec were not. Both had record years, and it could happen here."

New Brunswick's 10-year average is 246 fires per year, with 450 hectares of forested area burned. That figure nearly doubled last year, with 857 hectares burned, including 500 hectares scorched by the Stein Lake fire. While there were fewer fires last year compared to the annual average, 202 of the 209 were caused by humans; only seven were caused by lightning.

Natural Resources and Energy Development has about 150 trained personnel, with hundreds of other emergency firefighters serving with fire departments across the province.

Before lighting a fire, people are encouraged to check burning conditions by calling 1-866-458-8080 or visiting the department's website.

"The most impactful things people can do to protect their homes and communities from wildfires are the least expensive," said Roger Collet, a wildfire prevention officer. "Move things like firewood piles and storage sheds at least 10 metres away from your home. Planting fire-resistant plants and shrubs and regularly cleaning up fallen branches, dead leaves, dry grass and needles from the grounds around the home and the home's roof and gutters can reduce the risk of ignition from a wildfire."

Wildfire prevention officers encourage people to continue enjoying the outdoors while being vigilant with backyard firepits, motorized vehicles and hunting, fishing and camping activities. They also rely on New Brunswickers to report fires so that action can be taken quickly.

More tips for keeping your home safe are available online.

16-04-24

Media Contact(s)

Nick Brown, communications, Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development, [email protected].